The Party Idea Playbook
Illustration of sip and see

Sip and see

Baby showerAll agesBudget costEasy effortIndoorAny gender

Friends and family meet the new baby over drinks and cake, with a welcome book and short visiting slots.

Guests
10-40 guests (staggered)
Party length
2-3 hours
Prep time
2 hours (helpers do the rest)
Ages
All ages

What it could look like

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AI-generated example of a sip and see
An example of how a sip and see could look on the day. This image was generated by AI.

What it is

Instead of (or as well as) a baby shower, a “sip and see” happens after the birth. Friends and family drop by to meet the new baby over drinks and cake. Friends usually host it so the new parents don’t have to do any work.

Plan ahead

  • Two weeks before: pick a date when parents feel ready (often 6-8 weeks after birth). Give guests time slots.
  • One week before: a friend organises food, decorations and a guest book.
  • On the day: the hosts handle everything; parents just enjoy it.

Set the scene

“Welcome baby” balloons, a few photos of the baby, and a quiet room where parents can feed or settle the baby.

Activities

  • Welcome book: messages and predictions for the baby’s future.
  • Milestone cards: a photo of the baby with the “today I am X weeks old” card.

Food and drink

  • Cake, biscuits and fruit
  • Finger sandwiches
  • Tea, coffee and prosecco

Tips

  • Ask guests not to come if they are unwell, and to wash hands before holding the baby.
  • Keep it short - new parents are tired.

On the day

  1. Guests arrive in staggered slots so it's never too crowded.
  2. Hand washing station at the door.
  3. Meet the baby: a few minutes each, held by parents.
  4. Drinks and cake: tea, coffee, fizz and an easy spread.
  5. Welcome book: guests sign and write a message for baby.

Shopping list

welcome baby guest book
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baby sip and see decorations
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hand sanitiser dispenser
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cake stand
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baby milestone cards
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new baby balloons
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Party types

Birthdays by age

Who it's for

Style